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Boost for diabetes research in UK

Diabetes UK has welcomed the establishment of the new Local Research Networks for diabetes.

The networks will contribute to setting strategies for:• improving outcomes for people with diabetes• preventing the onset of the condition in the first place.

They have been set up by the UK Clinical Research Network and the Department of Health. Each of the eight newly announced centres will have funding of £300,000 - £400,000 each year.

"Diabetes is one of the greatest threats to the nation's health and more research is required to find the best ways to help people with the condition," said Douglas Smallwood, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK.

"Diabetes UK is committed to spending over £6 million on research this year but alone we cannot make the progress required. We have some of the best clinicians in the world in the UK and we have to make sure they have the money they need to make a difference to people's lives. This is another step in the right direction and we will be continuing to work with the networks to ensure they deliver the best outcomes for people with diabetes."

Each network will be involved in increasing patient and public involvement in diabetes research as well as supporting workforce development and open and transparent communication. The establishment of Local Clinical Networks is part of the Government's £100 million programme to improve the clinical research environment in the UK.